Russia Under Putin: A 25-Year Journey of Authoritarianism and War

RURussian Federation|

December 31, 2024, marks 25 years since Vladimir Putin first assumed power in Russia, following Boris Yeltsin's resignation. Initially an unknown figure, Putin rapidly gained popularity with military campaigns, beginning with the Chechen war. His rise was facilitated by a tacit agreement with the Russian populace: in exchange for political apathy, they would enjoy a degree of stability. However, this Stability has morphed into a climate of internal repression, with more than 11,000 individuals prosecuted for voicing dissent during his current term.

The regime’s increasing authoritarianism has led to severe crackdowns on civil society, highlighted by the Kremlin’s manipulation of media and opposition. Significant events, such as the 2014 annexation of Crimea and the ongoing Ukraine war, illustrate how Putin's government has responded to both internal and external pressures. While public support for Putin remains polarized, it increasingly reflects a passive acceptance of authoritarian rule rather than genuine ideological alignment.

As the war in Ukraine continues, Putin’s regime faces a dual challenge: managing military engagements while suppressing dissent at home. Analysts warn that the political landscape is becoming increasingly fragile, with the potential for internal conflicts within the regime. Political experts suggest the existing social contract—where citizens refrain from political engagement in exchange for stability—could fracture as economic pressures mount.

With authoritarianism deeply entrenched, the future of Russia under Putin remains uncertain, particularly as civil liberties continue to erode and dissatisfaction grows among the populace.

Weekly Newsletter

Loading...

More from Russian Federation

Russian Intelligence Allegedly Targeted Elon Musk with Exploitative Tactics

A former FBI agent has claimed that Russia's top military intelligence agency, the GRU, actively sought to exploit the vulnerabilities of billionaire Elon Musk, employing tactics involving sex and drugs. Jonathan Buma, who served 16 years as a counterintelligence officer, stated that such operations were approved by President Vladimir Putin himself, according to a report aired by German broadcaster ZDF on May 18, 2025. Buma detailed that the GRU anticipated Musk's susceptibility to women and drug use, viewing it as an opportunity for potential blackmail. He alleged that Russian agents utilized Musk's known interests in desert raves and adult entertainment as direct access points. Buma further indicated that Musk had likely engaged in discussions with Putin, an assertion corroborated by a Wall Street Journal report detailing secret conversations between the two since at least 2022. The GRU is noted for its aggressive espionage operations globally, often employing unconventional means to achieve its objectives. Buma, who is currently on bail after being charged with leaking confidential information, asserted there is substantial evidence supporting his claims.
RURussian Federation

Russia and China Join Forces to Establish Lunar Nuclear Power Station

Russia's space agency Roscosmos and the China National Space Administration have signed a memorandum to construct an automated nuclear power station on the Moon, targeting completion by 2035. The announcement, made on May 8, 2025, indicates that the power station will be part of the broader International Lunar Research Station (ILRS), which aims to facilitate extensive space research and technological advancements for prolonged uncrewed operations. Located within 100 kilometers of the lunar south pole, the ILRS will support both autonomous missions and short-term human presence on the Moon. The initiative, first proposed in 2017, has garnered participation from nations including Venezuela, Belarus, and Pakistan, among others. Yuri Borisov, head of Roscosmos, highlighted ongoing developments such as a nuclear-powered cargo spaceship designed for diverse applications, including transporting goods in space and debris collection. This partnership comes amid NASA's recent budget proposals, which threaten the future of its own lunar missions, including the Gateway project slated for launch in 2027.
RURussian Federation

Ukrainian Drones Disrupt Moscow Flights Amid War Preparations for Victory Day

Ukrainian drone strikes prompted significant disruptions at Moscow's airports for the third consecutive day, coinciding with preparations for Russia's annual Victory Day military parade, scheduled for May 9. Over 100 Aeroflot flights were canceled and more than 140 delayed due to heightened security concerns regarding the drone threats, according to the airline and Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin. This year’s celebrations, marking the 80th anniversary of victory over Nazi Germany, are particularly sensitive as foreign dignitaries, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, arrive for the events. In response to the drone strikes, Russia's air defenses reportedly thwarted multiple attacks aimed at the capital. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy cautioned foreign officials against visiting Russia during the celebrations, citing security risks and potential provocations by the Kremlin. Meanwhile, flight restrictions impacted approximately 350 flights, affecting around 60,000 passengers. Amid these tensions, the Russian military conducted its own airstrike campaign in Ukraine, resulting in casualties in Kyiv, where at least two individuals were killed and eight wounded. Ukrainian officials reported that Russian forces targeted residential buildings with missiles and drones.
RURussian Federation
All Russian Federation News ->